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Norway Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Afghan citizens need a Schengen visa (short stay) to travel to Norway — apply through the official portal at udi.no; visa fee is 80 EUR; standard processing around 15 days, up to 30 days in some cases; biometrics at a Norway Visa Application Centre.

Guide last updated September 5, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: Your Afghan passport must be valid for at least three months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area, and it must have been issued within the last 10 years. It should also have at least two blank visa pages.
  • Specific forms: There is no separate Norway visa form you print at home. Complete the online visa application on https://www.udi.no/ and print the confirmation. Biometrics will be submitted at the designated Norway Visa Application Centre (VAC).
  • Financial proof: Provide evidence of funds to cover travel and stay for the duration of your visit. The amount is assessed case-by-case by UDI; typical documents include bank statements for the last 3 months, salary slips, and sponsor letters if someone will support you.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: Submit proof of accommodation for the entire stay (hotel booking or host invitation with full address). Provide proof of return/onward travel (round-trip flight reservation).
  • Photo specification: One recent passport photo and, if requested, an additional photo. Photos should be 35x45 mm with a white background, full face, taken within the last 6 months; no hats or sunglasses unless for medical or religious reasons, and photos must be in color.
  • Biometrics: Yes — you must submit biometrics as part of the visa application process at the VAC.
  • Travel health insurance: Travel medical insurance is required for a Schengen visa, with minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid for the entire Schengen area during your stay.

Visa types

  • Schengen visa for Norway — short stay (Schengenvisum kort opphold): Official name in English. Valid for up to 90 days in a 180-day period; can be single or multiple entry depending on the decision. Approximate fee: 80 EUR. Suitable for tourism, business meetings, or visiting family/friends.
  • Residence permit for work (Arbeids- og oppholdsvisum): Long-term option (non-visit). Requires a job offer in Norway and typically leads to a residence permit for the duration of the work contract. Approximate fee: around 5,000–6,000 NOK (varies by case).
  • Residence permit for study (Utdanning/Studies): For pursuing higher education or study programs in Norway. Typically valid for the duration of the study, with potential extensions. Approximate fee: around 5,000–6,000 NOK (varies by program and length).
  • Family immigration (Familiegjenforening): For close family members of someone who already has residence in Norway. Typically long-term with renewal options. Approximate fee: around 5,000–6,000 NOK (varies by case).
  • Other long-term permits (e.g., family reunification, skilled worker categories): Fees and requirements vary; consult udi.no for the exact permit type you apply for and its fee.

How to apply

  • How to apply online: Start at https://www.udi.no/ and create an applicant profile. Complete the relevant application form for your visa type (short-stay Schengen visa or residence permit type). Pay the visa fee online.
  • Required steps for Sticker visa (visa at VAC): After submitting the online form, book an appointment at the Norway Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your region. Collect and carry all documents listed in your chosen visa category. Bring the printed online application form and receipts to the VAC appointment and provide biometric data at that time.
  • Documents checklist: Passport, online application confirmation, photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, financial proof, travel health insurance (EUR 30,000 minimum), return/onward flight reservation, and any documents specific to your visa type (employment contract or study offer letter, invitation letter, etc.).
  • Fees and payment: Pay the Schengen visa fee (80 EUR for adults; 40 EUR for children 6–11; free for under 6). VAC service fees apply per application and vary by country; check the local VAC page for exact amounts and payment methods (credit/debit cards are commonly accepted).
  • Timelines and interview: Processing typically takes around 15 calendar days but can take up to 30 days or longer in some cases. An interview may be requested at the embassy/consulate if additional information is needed.
  • Arrival of decision: The decision is communicated to you via the VAC/applicant portal or email; you will collect your passport with the visa sticker if approved.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: 80 EUR for adults; 40 EUR for children aged 6–11; free for children under 6. The fee is payable at the time of application.
  • VAC/VFS service fee: The Norway VAC service fee varies by country and centre (typical ranges around USD 25–30 per application in many regions). Confirm exact amount on the local VAC site when you book.
  • Total cost estimate: Visa fee plus VAC service fee (and possible courier or administrative charges). For example, a single short-stay visa could total around 80 EUR plus the VAC service fee.
  • Standard processing time: Generally 15 calendar days from the date of your VAC appointment, but some cases may take up to 30 days or longer if additional documents are requested.
  • Express/priority option: Some VACs offer expedited handling for an additional fee; availability varies by country and centre. Check with the specific VAC handling in your region.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Apply well in advance: Start the process at least 3–4 months before you plan to travel, to accommodate potential delays in document gathering or extra verification steps.
  • Common rejection reasons for Afghanistan applicants: Insufficient or unclear proof of funds; lack of a clear travel itinerary and accommodation details; missing or inconsistent documentation (employment letter, study offer, or invitation letter); passport not valid long enough or lacking blank pages; travel health insurance not meeting minimum coverage; inadequate ties to home country.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: Afghanistan-specific cases typically route through the designated Norway VAC/embassy in the region (often via Pakistan or nearby centers). Do not submit directly to a Norway consulate that is not accepting Afghanistan applications; follow the VAC process specified on UDI and the local center’s site.
  • Travel advisories and bilateral notes: Check the official Norway MFA/UDI travel advisories for Afghanistan and any bilateral notes that may affect visa processing or entry requirements. Verify current guidance on https://www.udi.no/ and the Norwegian embassy pages at https://www.norway.no/.
  • Extension options inside Norway: Short-stay Schengen visas cannot be extended simply; to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a residence permit (work, study, family reasons) from within Norway or before departure, as appropriate for your situation. For changes or extensions, consult UDI guidance before your visa expires.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.